A sprinkler head is one of the most common parts of your outdoor sprinkler system. If you have noticed a sprinkler that is not working properly, it may be time to look for a way to fix it. In this article, we will discuss some of the issues that can cause a sprinkler to malfunction, and how to solve them.
Damage to the sprinkler itself
If you have a sprinkler head that’s been damaged, it can cause water to flow in the wrong direction or at the wrong time. Not only can this damage your lawn, but the water may also spread unpleasant odors throughout your home.
There are several things that can cause a sprinkler head to malfunction, including overtightening the head. If you have a sprinkler system, you should schedule an inspection by a professional every year. A qualified professional can inspect the heads, repair them if necessary, and make sure they are in good working order.
The top reason for sprinkler head problems is mechanical damage. For example, a broken pipe can clog the sprinkler nozzle. This can lead to a puddle in your lawn, which can affect the growth of your landscape.
Other common causes of damaged heads include freezing weather. It’s important to keep your sprinkler heads covered during the winter months.
Another cause of broken heads is plant matter, especially if you have tall grass around the sprinklers. This can also cause debris to build up, such as dirt. If this occurs, you should be able to clear the nozzle by wiping it off. If this doesn’t work, it could be time to get a new sprinkler head.
Tilted or sunken sprinkler heads
If your sprinklers are tilted, there are some simple steps you can take to get them back in position. It may be that your heads need to be raised or redirected. If you are not sure what to do, it is a good idea to call a lawn irrigation expert for advice.
Tilted heads can be a result of the compaction of the soil. They also can be caused by the weight of landscaping equipment weighing on the wet soil.
Before raising or relocating your sprinklers, it’s important to remove the dirt that’s covering them. You can do this by using a stiff brush or a damp rag. Then, flush the sprinklers with running water.
If you’re working on your lawn’s water line, you need to wear old clothing. This will help to protect you from liability. You can also raise the heads by packing the soil around them.
Alternatively, you can simply replace them. You can find replacement pop-up sprinklers for as little as $10-20.
Clogged sprinkler heads
Clogged sprinkler heads are an annoying problem, but there are a few ways to clean them up and get your lawn back on track. The first step is to take a look at the system. Some problems with an irrigation system are caused by electrical wiring or water connection. The next step is to flush out the system to make sure there is no debris.
One of the easiest ways to clean a clogged head is to replace it with a new one. If you have the time and inclination, you can also clean the nozzles. Taking the time to do this will ensure that your sprinkler heads last as long as possible.
Putting the right pressure on the sprinkler head can help it work properly. This is especially important for brass heads. If you are not an expert in irrigation, you may want to consult a professional.
Using the appropriate tools is the best way to make sure you remove any debris from your sprinkler system. You can use a paper clip or a piece of stiff wire to clear a hole in the nozzle.
Replace faulty sprinkler heads
If your sprinkler heads are not functioning properly, they may need to be replaced. Whether you need to replace them for a lawn irrigation system or your personal property, there are a few steps you can take to repair your sprinkler heads.
The first step is to find a replacement head. A good place to start is your local home improvement store. The staff at these stores will be able to help you choose the best option for your needs.
When choosing a new head, you want to be sure it is the same type as your broken one. You also need to make sure it has the same delivery rate and throw distance. The spray pattern must be the same for your sprinkler heads to be effective.
After you have found the right head, you will need to remove the old one. You can do this by unscrewing it from its riser. Then you can twist the head anti-clockwise until it comes out.
